(introduction...)

In preindustrial times, energy needs were limited to agrarian
activities. Planting, harvesting, and transporting crops to small neighbouring
urban centres did not require much energy. Transportation of merchandise and
people was slow, and manufacturing (in foundries, potteries, and mills) was
limited and consumed only small amounts of energy. Only minor quantities of
energy were required to heat and light homes. These needs were satisfied by
using animal, wind, and water power and by burning wood, charcoal, and other
renewable fuels. Only negligible use of fossil fuels, such as coal, lignite, and
peat, took place; and mining operations were limited to open-air quarries and
pits.

Almost all preindustrial sources of energy were renewable.
Forests could grow again naturally or be replanted, animals could be raised,
wind and water were free. Under these circumstances, a steady rate of production
and even some growth could be sustained for an unlimited period without
exhausting the resource base. The effect on the environment of the use of these
sources of energy was limited and, in most cases, only local. The impact of
windmills and water mills was minimal, animal wastes contaminated only local
areas and were biodegradable.

The largest impact was probably a result of cutting trees for
firewood: soil erosion and local decreases in biodiversity. At the global and
regional levels, the effects were almost
unnoticeable.